Treated by Dr. Ravi Chandra Reddy Obili at Dr Ravi Chandra Reddy
Rectal prolapse happens when the rectum, the lower part of the large intestine, loses its normal attachments inside the body and slides out through the anal opening. This can range from a small amount of lining protruding during bowel movements to the entire thickness of the rectal wall coming out. Dr Ravi Chandra Reddy evaluates and manages rectal prolapse with approaches tailored to each patient's condition.
Only the inner lining of the rectum protrudes through the anus, usually during bowel movements or straining.
The entire wall of the rectum extends outside the body, which may happen with straining or even walking and standing.
The rectum folds inward on itself but does not come out through the anus, though it can cause similar symptoms and obstruction.
Multiple factors can contribute to the development and progression of this condition.
Recognising the signs early gives you more treatment options.
Assessment begins with your medical history and a physical examination, often including a digital rectal exam and inspection while you strain. Additional tests are ordered based on individual findings; not every patient requires all investigations.
From conservative to surgical — we always start with the least invasive option first.
A structured, patient-first approach from first visit to full recovery.
Dr Ravi Chandra Reddy takes a thorough history of your symptoms, bowel habits, and any previous medical or surgical issues, followed by a careful physical examination to confirm the type and extent of prolapse.
Based on examination findings, appropriate tests such as defecography, colonoscopy, or anorectal studies are arranged to understand the prolapse mechanism and rule out other conditions.
A treatment plan is developed together with you, starting with conservative measures where suitable and discussing surgical options when needed, with clear explanations of what each approach involves.
After treatment, regular follow-up is provided to monitor recovery, address any concerns, and offer guidance on maintaining bowel health and pelvic floor strength.
What to expect at each phase of recovery.
If managed conservatively, improvement in symptoms may take several weeks as dietary changes and exercises take effect. Individual response varies and ongoing adherence is important.
Following surgery, most patients spend a few days in hospital and gradually resume normal activities over several weeks. Pain, swelling, and changes in bowel pattern are common initially and managed with medication and dietary advice.
Full healing and return to usual function can take several weeks to months. Continued attention to bowel habits and pelvic floor health helps maintain results, though individual timelines vary.
Good management aims to reduce or eliminate the prolapse, improve bowel control, and relieve discomfort, though results depend on the severity and type of prolapse.
Many patients regain comfortable bowel function and confidence in daily activities, although some degree of ongoing bowel management may still be needed.
Rectal prolapse can recur after treatment, especially if underlying factors such as chronic straining or pelvic floor weakness are not addressed. No treatment guarantees permanent resolution.
Some patients may continue to experience faecal incontinence or constipation even after successful repair, as these symptoms can have multiple contributing factors beyond the prolapse itself.
Without treatment, rectal prolapse typically worsens over time, with the tissue protruding more frequently and becoming harder to reduce. The exposed rectal lining may become damaged, bleed, or develop ulcers. Faecal incontinence and difficulty with bowel movements often increase, affecting quality of life and daily activities.
You should seek medical evaluation if you notice any tissue bulging from your anus, experience mucus or blood discharge, or have new or worsening problems with bowel control. Early assessment allows for simpler management and can prevent progression. If you have severe pain, significant bleeding, or tissue that cannot be pushed back in, seek prompt medical attention.
Early treatment means more options and better outcomes. Book a consultation to understand your condition and explore the right path forward.
